What is included in the Natal Arcadia Acrylic 4pc Shell Pack?

The shell pack includes four drum shells: traditionally a bass drum, two rack toms, and a floor tom. It does not include cymbals, stands, or a snare drum unless specified by the retailer.

Are the shells on this kit seamless?

Yes, Natal uses seamless shell construction for the Arcadia Acrylic series. This design improves the overall strength of the drums and allows for better resonance compared to shells with glued seams.

What type of hoops are used on the Arcadia Acrylic?

The kit is equipped with triple-flanged chrome hoops. these hoops provide a classic feel and reliable tuning stability while complementing the transparent aesthetic of the shells.

Is this kit suitable for studio recording?

While it can be used in the studio, its high attack and bright tone are specifically designed for live performance. Drummers seeking a warm, vintage tone might prefer a wooden kit like the Ludwig Neusonic.

How does acrylic sound compared to maple drums?

Acrylic is generally louder and punchier with more 'attack' than maple. While maple provides warmth and lower-mid frequencies, acrylic offers a bright, focused sound that cuts through loud stage mixes.

Does the kit come with drum lights?

No, the kit does not include internal lighting as standard. However, the transparent shells are specifically designed to be compatible with aftermarket drum lighting systems for visual effects.

What kind of spurs does the bass drum have?

The bass drum is equipped with telescopic legs. These provide a sturdy grip on different floor surfaces and prevent the drum from 'creeping' forward during heavy playing.

Who is the Natal Arcadia Acrylic best suited for?

It is best suited for live performers who want a kit with high visual impact and a powerful, modern sound. It is a popular choice for rock, pop, and metal drummers playing on lit stages.

What is the typical price for this shell pack?

The Natal Arcadia Acrylic 22 4pc Shell Pack typically retails for approximately £941. This places it in the intermediate-to-professional price category.

Are the lugs different from previous Natal models?

Yes, the Arcadia Acrylic features improved Natal lugs designed for better durability and tuning precision. They maintain the signature Natal aesthetic while offering modern performance reliability.

Can I use this kit for jazz music?

While possible, the high volume and sharp attack of acrylic shells are generally less common in jazz. Alternatives like the Sonor AQ2 Safari might be more appropriate for jazz due to their smaller sizes and wooden construction.

Is the finish durable?

The transparent acrylic is naturally durable and does not peel like traditional wraps. However, users should take care to prevent surface scratches, which can be more visible on clear shells.

Gear article

Natal Arcadia Acrylic 22 4pc Shell Pack

The Natal Arcadia Acrylic 22 4pc Shell Pack is a high-impact acoustic drum kit designed for live performance, featuring seamless acrylic shells and heavy-duty chrome hardware. It is known for its visual transparency and powerful sonic attack, offering a modern alternative to traditional wooden drum sets.

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Overview and Construction

The Natal Arcadia Acrylic series is engineered to combine Natal's established craftsmanship with the unique properties of acrylic material. Unlike many lower-tier acrylic kits, the Arcadia shells are seamless. This construction method provides increased structural integrity and enhanced resonance, as there are no joined seams to interrupt vibrations or create potential points of failure.

The kit features high-quality hardware appointments including improved Natal-specific lugs, triple-flanged chrome hoops for consistent tuning, and telescopic bass drum legs to ensure stability during aggressive play. As a shell pack, it typically focuses on the drums themselves, allowing drummers to use their preferred hardware and cymbal setups.

Sonic Character

Acrylic kits are distinct from maple or birch equivalents due to their higher density and lack of porous grain. The Arcadia Acrylic is defined by a 'powerhouse' sound with a significant sonic attack. The resonance is crisp and the decay is often shorter and more controlled than thin-walled wooden drums, making it highly effective for loud genres and live stages where clarity and volume are paramount.

Performance and Visual Impact

The transparent finish of the Arcadia Acrylic is a primary feature, designed for maximum visual impact under stage lighting. The kit is particularly well-suited for drummers who wish to incorporate internal drum lights or effects, as the shells transmit light across the entire kit. The combination of its 'punchy' sound and aesthetic presence makes it a specialist tool for live performers rather than a traditional studio-oriented kit.

Market Comparison

Within the mid-to-high price bracket of approximately £941, the Natal Arcadia Acrylic competes with several notable wooden alternatives. While the Ludwig Neusonic and DW Performance Series focus on hybrid or North American Maple shells for warmth, the Natal Arcadia offers a more aggressive aesthetic. Compared to the Tama Superstar Classic or Yamaha Rydeen, which are often sold as complete sets with hardware, the Arcadia Acrylic is positioned as a premium aesthetic choice for drummers who specifically require the projection and look of acrylic.

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Frequently asked questions

What is included in the Natal Arcadia Acrylic 4pc Shell Pack?: The shell pack includes four drum shells: traditionally a bass drum, two rack toms, and a floor tom. It does not include cymbals, stands, or a snare drum unless specified by the retailer.
Are the shells on this kit seamless?: Yes, Natal uses seamless shell construction for the Arcadia Acrylic series. This design improves the overall strength of the drums and allows for better resonance compared to shells with glued seams.
What type of hoops are used on the Arcadia Acrylic?: The kit is equipped with triple-flanged chrome hoops. these hoops provide a classic feel and reliable tuning stability while complementing the transparent aesthetic of the shells.
Is this kit suitable for studio recording?: While it can be used in the studio, its high attack and bright tone are specifically designed for live performance. Drummers seeking a warm, vintage tone might prefer a wooden kit like the Ludwig Neusonic.
How does acrylic sound compared to maple drums?: Acrylic is generally louder and punchier with more 'attack' than maple. While maple provides warmth and lower-mid frequencies, acrylic offers a bright, focused sound that cuts through loud stage mixes.
Does the kit come with drum lights?: No, the kit does not include internal lighting as standard. However, the transparent shells are specifically designed to be compatible with aftermarket drum lighting systems for visual effects.
What kind of spurs does the bass drum have?: The bass drum is equipped with telescopic legs. These provide a sturdy grip on different floor surfaces and prevent the drum from 'creeping' forward during heavy playing.
Who is the Natal Arcadia Acrylic best suited for?: It is best suited for live performers who want a kit with high visual impact and a powerful, modern sound. It is a popular choice for rock, pop, and metal drummers playing on lit stages.
What is the typical price for this shell pack?: The Natal Arcadia Acrylic 22 4pc Shell Pack typically retails for approximately £941. This places it in the intermediate-to-professional price category.
Are the lugs different from previous Natal models?: Yes, the Arcadia Acrylic features improved Natal lugs designed for better durability and tuning precision. They maintain the signature Natal aesthetic while offering modern performance reliability.
Can I use this kit for jazz music?: While possible, the high volume and sharp attack of acrylic shells are generally less common in jazz. Alternatives like the Sonor AQ2 Safari might be more appropriate for jazz due to their smaller sizes and wooden construction.
Is the finish durable?: The transparent acrylic is naturally durable and does not peel like traditional wraps. However, users should take care to prevent surface scratches, which can be more visible on clear shells.